Mission planning
Part I: Theory and background
Part II: Example walkthrough
(
DJI GS Pro)
Mission planning
Using a mission planning app is
essential to get uniform/desired
image spacing
If you ever try getting imagery
without a mission planning
app… it will look like the pilot
was
Mission planning
Several options are available, consider which is best for your needs
Mission planning
Considerations before choosing an app
Compatibility with device, UAS, cameras
Mission resume, repeatability
Flexibility vs. ease of use
Probability of error
Most are free or inexpensive try several!
When buying equipment, ask the sales representative about
recommendations for your combination of aircraft, device, cameras, and
project requirements
Mission planning
Trade-offs
Higher altitude=more
area/time, but lower
resolution.
Altitude: 40m; Overlap: 75/85; Time: 9m 21s
Altitude: 80m; Overlap: 75/85; Time: 4m 12s
Mission planning
Trade-offs
Higher overlap increases
stitching quality, but
reduces area/time
Ideal overlap depends on
mapped surface
Altitude: 80m; Overlap: 70/70; Time: 3m 11s
Altitude: 80m; Overlap: 75/85; Time: 4m 12s
Choosing the right sensor
RGB
Thermal
Multispectral
Hyperspectral
Lidar
RGB
Multispectral
Hyperspectral
Lidar
Thermal infrared
Part II: Example walkthrough with DJI GS Pro
1. Install app from
preferred store, open
by clicking icon
2. Click the + symbol to
create a new mission
3. Click “3DMap Area”
4. Click “Tap”
5. Click area of
interest
6
desired corners
7. Pull these to
make additional
corners
8
. Choose
camera, angle,
capture
mode,
an
d
altitude
9. Switch to advanced
1
0
. Adjust
overlap, margin,
gimbal angle,
and final action
11. Click the flight
icon, and after
mission uploads,
click “fly